Hematinic, anti-plasmodial potential and toxicity of aqueous leaf extract of Justicia secundain albino mice

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the hematinic, anti-plasmodial potentials, and toxic effects of an aqueous extract of the leaf of Justicia secunda in mice (Mus musculus) made anemic by Plasmodium beighei. 
 Methods: The LD50 of J. secunda was determined using Lorke’s method. Male albino mice ages 4 – 5 months, totaling forty-eight (48), were assigned at random to six groups (1 – 6). Groups 1, 2, and 3 mice were P. berghei-infected and were given extract doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg of body weight, respectively. Group 4 (positive control) was infected and treated with 0.3 mL of vitamin B12 (standard). Group 5 (negative control) was infected and untreated, while group 6 (normal control) was uninfected and untreated. Blood samples were taken on days 7, 12, and 16 post-infections to measure haemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV), alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, and urea using standard methods. 
 Results: Lower concentrations (200 and 400 mg) of the extract reduced P. berghei parasitemia. In comparison to vitamin B12, there was a negligible drop in Hb, PCV, and RBC levels in the infected groups. Both J. secunda extract and vitamin B12 did not improve the hematinic status of the mice infected with P. berghei. The hematinic condition of the mice with P. berghei infection was not improved by J. secunda extract or vitamin B12. Biochemical analysis showed no toxicity due to extract intake. 
 Conclusion: Justicia secunda leaf extract has anti-plasmodial efficacy in P. berghei-infected mice. Studies are required to validate these findings in humans.